Electric Byrd [With Booklet] (Hol), Donald Byrd, CD

When an artist follows trends, "electric" can sound like a gimmick. But with Donald Byrd, it's a natural evolution. On "Electric Byrd", electronic textures become an organic extension of his unmistakable lyricism, never artificial, always personal. With Duke Pearson on electric piano and the subtle rhythmic wizardry of Airto Moreira, the album unfolds as a series of vivid "feelingscapes." Moods shift fluidly from expressive trumpet solos to richly layered ensemble passages and intricate rhythm designs, creating a deeply cohesive listening experience. From the cool, floating woodwinds of "Estavanico" to the understated brilliance of drummer Mickey Roker on "Essence", 'Electric Byrd' is mood-driven jazz fusion at it's most imaginative and immersive.